Fred Ambani proudly displays his trophy and dummy cheque/HANDOUT AFC Leopards head coach Fred Ambani and Posta Rangers forward Jackson Macharia have respectively been named the SportPesa League Coach and Player of the Month for March, following a run of performances that stood out in a fiercely competitive month.
Ambani, a former striker has overseen a disciplined resurgence, guiding Ingwe to second place on the table, just two points behind leaders Gor Mahia. Leopards’ rise has been built on control, organisation and an ability to grind out results under pressure.
AFC Leopards began the month with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Tusker FC before edging Kariobangi Sharks by the same scoreline, underlining their growing ability to manage matches and protect leads. The consistency has not gone unnoticed, with Ambani crediting the collective effort behind the team’s progress.
“This award is not about me. It is about the players and the technical bench who have worked tirelessly,” Ambani said. The coach pointed to discipline and structure as key pillars behind the team’s success.
“We have focused on organisation, discipline and understanding our roles on the pitch,” he added. Ingwe’s climb has intensified the title race, bringing them within touching distance of their arch-rivals ahead of a decisive Mashemeji Derby later this month.
However, Ambani remains cautious. “We are in a good position, but we have not achieved anything yet,” he said. He stressed the need for focus as the season enters a critical phase. “The league is very competitive, and every game now carries weight. We must stay focused,” Ambani said.
AFC Leopards’ defensive solidity has stood out, with the team showing an ability to protect narrow leads — a trait often associated with title contenders. Ambani attributes this to improved game management and mental discipline. “We have improved in managing games.
The players understand when to push and when to control the tempo,” he said. The award places Ambani among a select group of coaches recognised this season, following earlier winners Charles Akonnor and Peter Okidi. He receives a customised trophy and Sh75,000 courtesy of sponsors SportPesa.
Despite the recognition, Ambani insists the focus remains on results. “The focus now shifts immediately to the next match. Awards are good, but results are what matter most,” he said. Leopards next face Kenya Police FC at Nyayo National Stadium on April 18 in what is expected to be a stern test. Kenya Police are a strong and organised side. We must be prepared for a tough match,” Ambani said.
They will then take on Gor Mahia on April 26 in a potentially decisive Mashemeji Derby. “We respect Gor Mahia, but we will approach that match like any other. Preparation is key,” he noted. With fixtures against Ulinzi Stars, Mara Sugar, Kakamega Homeboyz, APS Bomet and Bidco United still to come, Ambani believes mentality will be crucial.
“It is not just about tactics now. It is about mentality and belief,” he said. “We have shown that we can compete and win under pressure. That gives us confidence,” Ambani added.
As the season reaches its climax, Ingwe remain firmly in contention, but Ambani insists consistency will be key. “We must keep working hard and stay humble. The job is not done,” he said.
Meanwhile, Macharia stopped what would have been an Ingwe clean sweep as he edged Tyson Otieno for the players’ award.
The experienced attacker had an outstanding March run, stroking home 4 goals in 4 matches, the highest in the period, which included the opener in a 1-1 draw against Gor Mahia and a brace that edged Kariobangi Sharks 2-1.
Macharia who pocketed Sh50,000 and a customised trophy said the recognition reflects the collective effort of the team and technical bench.
“I’m grateful for this award and thankful to my teammates and coaches who have supported me throughout the season,” said Macharia. “Football is a team sport and every goal I score comes from the work we do together. I’m motivated to keep working hard and help the team achieve even more in the remaining matches.”
SportPesa's Head of Partnerships and Sponsorships, Japheth Akhulia congratulated both winners, saying: “The level of competition in the SportPesa League continues to rise, with clubs and players delivering outstanding performances week after week. Celebrating excellence through these monthly awards is an important way of recognising the progress and quality in our game.”
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